New Technology in Avian Influenza Protection

Poultry and dairy farmers in California have a new tool to help protect their flocks from the threat of bird flu. Maurice Pitesky, poultry specialist with the University of California Cooperative Extension, has developed the Waterfowl Alert Network. The system delivers real-time data about where waterfowl are roosting and feeding—critical information, since migrating birds can carry the virus that causes avian influenza.

Using a combination of satellite data, weather radar, and land-based environmental sensors, the Waterfowl Alert Network aims to reduce the risk of contact between wild birds and domestic flocks. That could mean fewer outbreaks and less disruption to California’s animal agriculture.

Pitesky says that, looking ahead, it's important to think about long-term strategies—like encouraging waterfowl habitats to shift away from areas with food animal production.

The research was published in California Agriculture, a peer-reviewed journal from the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources: https://californiaagriculture.org/article/131988-to-limit-bird-flu-spread-keep-wild-birds-away-from-poultry-livestock